U.S. patent application number 13/029357 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-09 for inside belt.
Invention is credited to Edward A. Miller.
Application Number | 20110131708 13/029357 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40134962 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110131708 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Miller; Edward A. |
June 9, 2011 |
INSIDE BELT
Abstract
An inner belt fits along the juncture of a person's stomach and
thighs. The inner belt has first and second arches with a garment
supported by the arch and the arch sized to offset the garment's
waistline from the inner belt. Each arch has a front end a rear end
fastened to the inner belt. The front end of each arch is located
so it fastens to the inner belt adjacent the user's crotch during
use. The rear end of each arch is located so it fastens to the
inner belt at or before the hips of the user during use. A first
loop extends from each arch, over the waistline and a normal, outer
belt threads through the first loops and also through the normal
belt loops on the garment. The outer belt supports the garment and
the first loop and arches support the outer belt in a position
offset from the inner belt. One or more second loops can optionally
be fastened to the back of the inner belt to extend over the
waistline and support the outer belt along the user's back.
Localized stiffeners can be added to the first and second loops,
inner belt and arches in order to keep the top of the loops above
the waistline and reduce distortion of the waistline where the
loops connect to the outer belt.
Inventors: |
Miller; Edward A.; (Laguna
Woods, CA) |
Family ID: |
40134962 |
Appl. No.: |
13/029357 |
Filed: |
February 17, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11977546 |
Oct 25, 2007 |
7921474 |
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13029357 |
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60936759 |
Jun 23, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
2/308 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41F 9/025 20130101;
A41F 9/002 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/308 |
International
Class: |
A41F 9/00 20060101
A41F009/00 |
Claims
1-25. (canceled)
26. A method for supporting and positioning a garment on a person's
waist with first, external belt loops on the garment and an
external belt threaded through the external belt loops adjacent a
waistline of the garment, comprising: placing an internal belt
around the person's body between the waist and crotch to support
the weight of the garment, the internal belt supporting second
loops; positioning the second loops to hang over the waistline of
the garment; and threading the external belt through the second
loops, the garment hanging on the external belt to support the
garment and the external belt hanging on the second loops to
support the external belt on the inner belt.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) of application Ser. No. 60/936,759 filed Jun. 23,
2007, the complete contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] A person with a discernable paunch or stomach typically
pulls an external belt tight in order to maintain a level waistline
on the person's pants, skirt or garment. That is very
uncomfortable, especially when the user bends over. Some persons
with extending stomachs will allow the stomach to protrude over the
belt, so the waistline curves downward toward the person's crotch,
and that presents an unattractive appearance. There is thus a need
for a garment that maintains a level waistline even if the user has
a pronounced stomach, while allowing the user to move freely and
without squeezing the person's stomach.
[0003] Some dress styles allow the waistline of a person's pants to
ride very low on the waist so it looks like the pants are falling
off--which they are. In such cases the user continually repositions
the pants to maintain them in a low-ridding position without
allowing the pants to fall onto the user's legs. There is a need to
position a waistline at a desired position and to maintain that
waistline position without repeated manual adjustment.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0004] An inner belt and garment fasten around a user's waist with
the inner belt being configured to support the waistline of the
garment at a selected waistline position. The inner belt has first
and second arches with each arch having a front end a rear end
fastened to the inner belt. The front end of each arch is located
so it fastens to the inner belt adjacent the user's crotch during
use. The rear end of each arch is located so it fastens to the
inner belt at or before the hips of the user during use. A first
loop extends from the arch over the garment's waistline where a
normal, external belt threads through the first loops as well as
threading through the normal external loops on the garment.
[0005] The external belt carries the weight of the garment and the
first loops and arches transfer that weight from the external belt
to the inner belt. Since the inner belt follows the natural curves
along the juncture of the stomach and thighs the inner belt is
comfortable. The arches offset the waistline vertically from the
lower position of the inner belt and allow the user to maintain a
level or straight waistline. The first loops transfer the weight of
the garment from the external belt to the arches and inner belt. In
use, the garment's belt loops rest against the top edge of the
outer belt, while the bottom edge of that outer belt rests against
the bottom of the loops that are connected to the inner belt either
directly, or by the offsetting arches or localized stiffeners. By
supporting the weight of the garment on the inner belt which is
concealed from view by the garment, the outer belt and waistline of
the garment can be held at any desired position and thereby avoid
the unsightly appearance of a stomach overhanging the garment's
waistline. It is not necessary to have the garment and/or belt
tight around the waist since this design supports the garment with
the inside belt. This allows for a comfortable fit even when
sitting or bending.
[0006] A second loop is optionally added at the back of the inner
belt to connect the inner belt to the external belt. Less offset is
needed at the user's back so arches are not believed necessary. A
local stiffener fastened to the second loop and inner belt and
extending above the inner belt and waistline advantageously
positions the top of the second loop above the waistline and
prevents local distortion of the waistline. Similar stiffeners can
be added to the first loops on the arches to avoid distorting the
waistline.
[0007] There is also advantageously provided a method of supporting
a garment worn around a user's waist using a garment having a
waistband with a waistline with a plurality of external belt loops.
An external belt is threaded through the external belt 1 oops. This
method is especially useful when the user has an extending stomach,
along with the normal thighs and hips, and a crotch between the
thighs and hips. The method includes placing an inner belt along
the juncture of the stomach and thighs. The inner belt has two
arches located on opposing sides of the crotch with each arch
having a front end adjacent the crotch and a rear end adjacent and
in front of the hips. The inner belt has at least one first loop
supported by each arch, and at least one second loop supported by
the belt and located between the rear ends of the arches. The
exterior belt is threaded through the external belt loops and
supports the weight of the garment on the external belt. The
exterior belt is also threaded through the first and second loops
and supports the weight of the external belt on the inner belt and
arches.
[0008] In further variations of this basis method, the external
belt is supported on or connected to each arch by two first loops
on each arch. Further, the method includes forming the inner belt
of two portions with each portion connected to one arch and then
connecting the two portions with an adjustable length connector
located between the rear ends of the arches. Because the arches are
adjacent the user's crotch at the front of the garment, a large
adjustment of the inner belt using a normal belt buckle adjustment
at the front will shift the location of one arch relative to the
other arch. Thus, an inner belt with a length adjustment at the
back of the user is desirable. The inner belt is thus
advantageously formed of two portions each of which is connected to
one arch and these two portions are connected with an adjustable
length connector located between the second ends of the arches and
further located along the user's back during use. Further, the
method includes supporting a top of the first loops above the
waistline of the garment. That helps prevent the first loop from
distorting the waistline and also helps prevent the arch from
showing above the waistline.
[0009] Preferably, but optionally, each arch is made of flexible
material and designed to flex and enable the arch to conform to the
general body shape. Advantageously, each arch is not symmetric, but
is inclined toward the other arch so the top of each arch is fairly
flat so the arch can be fastened to the horizontal waistband of a
garment. Moreover, each arch can be doubly curved to conform to the
general shape of an extending stomach. Optionally, each arch is
permanently fastened to the garment, although the arches are
preferably releasably fastened to the garment. Optionally, each
arch is permanently fastened to the inner belt, although the arches
are preferably releasably fastened to the inner belt. Preferably,
but optionally, the front and back ends of the arch are stiffer
than the portion of the arch between those front and back ends.
[0010] There is also provided an assembly that includes an inner
belt and a garment for fastening around a user's waist. The garment
has a waistline with external belt loops adjacent the waistline for
use with an external belt threading along a normal path through
those external belt loops. The inner belt has opposing distal ends
releasably fastenable together and located inside the garment. The
assembly includes first and second arches each having a front end a
rear end fastened to the inner belt adjacent the distal ends of the
inner belt. The front end of each arch is located so it fastens to
the inner belt adjacent the user's crotch during use of the
assembly. The rear end is located so it fastens to the inner belt
at or slightly before the hips of the user during use.
[0011] Further, the assembly has at least two first loops each
supported by a different one of the arches and located between the
front and rear ends of the arch. The first loops are located
adjacent a top of the arch and have a length sufficient to pass
over the waistline and align with the normal path of the external
belt through the external belt loops during use of the assembly.
Moreover, the inner belt optionally has at least one second loop
connected thereto and located between the two arches and at a
portion of the inner belt located at the user's back during use of
the assembly. The second loop also has a length sufficient to pass
over the waistline and align with the normal path of the external
belt through the external belt loops during use of the assembly. In
use, an external belt is threaded through the first and second
loops and through the external belt loops.
[0012] The arches can be made and connected in the various ways
that are described later in this summary. But each arch is
preferably connected to a tab which is connected to the first loop,
with the tab being located and constructed to hold a top of that
first loop above the waistline during use of the assembly. Further,
each arch is preferably, but optionally connected to two tabs, each
of which are connected to first loops. These two tabs are located
and constructed to hold a top of the first loops above the
waistline during use of the assembly. Again, an external belt is
threaded through the first loops and the second loop. The inner
belt preferably has a two part construction with an adjustable
portion located by the user's back during use of the assembly. A
stiffener is optionally provided at the location of a plurality of
the first or second loops. The stiffeners are connected to one of
the arches or inner belt sufficiently to hold a top of the
plurality of loops adjacent the waistline during use of the
apparatus.
[0013] There is also advantageously provided an inner belt for use
with a garment having a plurality of exterior belt loops for use
with an external belt threading along a normal path through those
external belt loops. The inner belt with opposing distal ends has
the belt configured to fit along the contour of a user's stomach
adjacent the juncture of the stomach and legs, the inner belt
further configured to pass over the user's hips and across the
user's back during use of the inner belt. The belt has a releasable
belt fastening mechanism on at least one distal end to releasably
engage the ends of the belt. There are also first and second arches
fastened to the inner belt where each arch has a front end a rear
end with the front end of each arch fastened adjacent a different
distal end of the inner belt. The front end of each arch is located
so it fastens to the inner belt adjacent the user's crotch during
use of the inner belt. The rear end of each arch is located so it
fastens to the inner belt at or before the hips of the user during
use of the inner belt. The inner belt also has at least two first
loops each supported by a different one of the arches and located
between the front and rear ends of the arch and further located
adjacent a top of the arch. The first loop has a length sufficient
to pass over the waistline and align with the normal path of the
external belt through the external belt loops during use of the
assembly.
[0014] Variations of this basic belt include at least one second
loop connected to the inner belt and located between the two arches
and at a portion of the inner belt located at the user's back
during use of the inner belt. Like the first loop, the second loop
also has a length sufficient to pass over the waistline and align
with the normal path of the external belt through the external belt
loops during use of the assembly. The arches and first loop support
the front of the garment off of the inner belt and the second loop
supports the rear of the garment off of the inner belt. The arches
are described later. But there are preferably two first loops on
each arch with the loops located so the top of each loop is on a
generally level line during use of the inner belt. That helps keep
the garment's waistline straight or level. Each of these two first
loops are spaced about 2 to 2.5 inches apart, and that helps place
one of these loops adjacent the external belt loops on a garment to
more directly transfer the weight of the garment to the first loops
and thus to the inner belt.
[0015] Further, a stiffener is advantageously fastened to a
plurality of the first loops and fastens to the belt or to material
connected to the belt in order to position a top of the first loops
above the arch and to position the top of the second loop above the
waistline of the garment. The stiffeners help transmit the weight
from the external belt to the internal belt without locally
distorting the waistline.
[0016] The inner belt advantageously has a length adjustment
located between the two arches, adjacent the user's back when the
inner belt is used. The inner belt thus advantageously has two
portions connected by an adjustable length connector located at
back of the user during use of the garment.
[0017] There are other, but less useful ways to fasten the inner
belt to the garment in which an inner belt and garment fasten
around a user's waist with the inner belt being configured to
support the waistline of the garment at a selected waistline
position. The inner belt has first and second arches with each arch
having a front end a rear end fastened to the inner belt. The front
end of each arch is located so it fastens to the inner belt
adjacent the user's crotch during use. The rear end of each arch is
located so it fastens to the inner belt at or before the hips of
the user during use. Two first fasteners are connected to a
different one of the arches adjacent a top of the arch. The garment
has two second fasteners, preferably but optionally connected to a
waistband of the garment. Each of the second fasteners is located
to releasably engage one of the first fasteners to fasten the arch
to the garment so the arches hold the waistline of the garment
above the inner belt. The garment preferably covers the inner belt
and arches, so the inner belt is inside the garment. The garment is
optionally connected to the inner belt by a third fastener located
between the arches, along the user's back. More than one fastener
could be located along the user's back to connect the inner belt to
the garment. The garment can fasten to the arches using a single
fastener, or by using two or more fasteners.
[0018] There is also provided an improved inner belt to be worn
underneath a garment, the inner belt having opposing distal ends.
The inner belt further has first and second arches each having a
front end a rear end fastened to the inner belt. The front end of
each arch is fastened adjacent a different end of the inner belt.
The front end of each arch is located so it fastens to the inner
belt adjacent the user's crotch during use. The rear end of each
arch is located so it fastens to the inner belt at or before the
hips of the user during use. At least two first fasteners are each
connected to a different one of the arches between the front and
rear ends and adjacent a top of the arch.
[0019] Each arch is preferably not symmetric, but is inclined
toward the other arch. Moreover, each arch is doubly curved to
conform to the general shape of an extending stomach. Further,
there are preferably, but optionally two first fasteners on each
arch with the fasteners located on a generally level line.
Optionally, the arches are permanently fastened to a garment.
Optionally, the arches are permanently fastened to the inner belt.
Preferably, the front and back ends of the arch are stiffer than
the portion of the arch between those front and back ends. The
fasteners are preferably releasable fasteners so the arch is
releasably fastened to the garment, to the inner belt, or to both
the garment and the inner belt.
[0020] There is also advantageously provided a garment having a
waistband for use with an inner belt support, where the inner belt
support has two arches that extend from the inner belt to the
waistband. The garment has at least two fasteners connected to the
garment adjacent the waistline of the garment and on the waistband.
Each of the at least two fasteners is located to engage a different
one of the arches. The garment also has an optional third fastener
located between the two fasteners and further located to be on the
back of the user during use. The third fastener can include more
than one fastener.
[0021] Preferably, but optionally, there are two fasteners on each
arch and two second fasteners on the garment, with all of these
fasteners located on a generally level line. Preferably the
fasteners on the garment are releasable fasteners, although
optimally the garment could be permanently connected to the
arches.
[0022] There is also advantageously provided a method of supporting
a garment worn around a user's waist. The garment has a waistband
with a waistline and the user has an extending stomach with thighs
and hips and with a crotch between the thighs and hips. The method
includes placing a inner belt along the juncture of the stomach and
thighs where the inner belt has two arches located on opposing
sides of the crotch with each arch having a front end adjacent the
crotch and a rear end adjacent and in front of the hips. The method
further includes supporting the waistline at a selected position by
fastening the garment to the arches to cover the arches and inner
belt where the arches are sized and positioned to support the
waistline at the selected position.
[0023] In further variations, the method also includes supporting
the waistline by fastening the garment to the inner belt at a
location between the hips and along a back of the user. Further
variations also include fastening the garment to each arch at two
locations. Further, the method can include fastening at least one
button to each arch where the button is sized slightly smaller than
a width of the waistband and then placing the butting through a
slit on the inside of the waistband where the slit extends along a
length of the waistband. Advantageously, the slit is formed in a
piece of material that is then sewn to or clipped to the
waistband.
[0024] In still further variations, the method can optionally
include permanently fastening the arches to the inner belt, or
permanently fastening the arches to the garment, or both, although
preferably they are all releasably fastened together.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] These and other features and advantages of the various
embodiments disclosed herein will be better understood with respect
to the following description and drawings, in which like numbers
refer to like parts throughout, and in which:
[0026] FIG. 1 is a front plan view of a preferred embodiment of an
inner belt with arches that are attached to a garment;
[0027] FIG. 2 is a front plan view of an arch used on the inner
belt of FIG. 1;
[0028] FIG. 3 is a top view of the arches of FIG. 1 conforming to
the shape of a stomach;
[0029] FIG. 4 is a partial sectional view taken along 4-4 of FIG.
2, showing the end of one arch attached to the inner belt;
[0030] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a inner belt with an
adjustable back portion, apart from a garment, with two fasteners
on an each arch and with the arches fastened to an outside of the
inner belt.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a inner belt with a
non-adjustable back portion, apart from a garment and with one
fastener on each arch, with the arches fastened to an inside of the
inner belt;
[0032] FIG. 7 is a side view of the inner belt of FIG. 1 on a
person;
[0033] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an arch in a pocket fastened
to a waistband of a garment;
[0034] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an arch passing through
slits in a waistband of a garment;
[0035] FIG. 10 is a view of an arch having tabs for connecting to a
garment;
[0036] FIG. 11 is a plan view of the inner belt of FIG. 1;
[0037] FIG. 12 is a plan view of an inner belt fastened to a
skirt;
[0038] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a portion of a waistband showing a
button hole for a fastener; and
[0039] FIG. 14 is a plan view of the inside of the inner belt of
FIG. 1 without a garment;
[0040] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the inside of the inner belt of
FIG. 1 and the inside of the garment with the garment and inner
belt laid flat;
[0041] FIG. 16 is a partial perspective view of clamps fastening an
arch to the inner belt at two locations;
[0042] FIG. 17 is a partial perspective view showing an outside
view of an arch connected to a inner belt, with an alternative
fastening mechanism;
[0043] FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view of an external belt
fastened to a garment and optionally fastened to the arch and inner
belt of FIG. 1;
[0044] FIG. 19 is a sectional view showing the external belt and
garment of FIG. 18 fastened to the arch on the inner belt of
Fig.
[0045] FIG. 20 is a plan view of a further embodiment of a
mechanism for fastening an external belt to the arch and/or inner
belt of FIG. 1;
[0046] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an inner belt similar to
that of FIG. 20 with the length adjustment reversed and with no
standoff tabs on the loops;
[0047] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an inner belt similar to
that of FIG. 20 or 21 in use;
[0048] FIGS. 23a, 23b are sectional views taken along Section 23-23
of FIG. 22 showing two different embodiments with different arch
locations;
[0049] FIG. 23 is a sectional view taken along Section 24-24 of
FIG. 22;
[0050] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a segment of the fastening
mechanism of FIG. 21; and
[0051] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a
belt loop fastening mechanism.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0052] FIGS. 1-5 and 7 show a flexible inner belt 1 with a
connector 5, such as a belt buckle. The inner belt 1 is placed
along the natural curves of a person's body between the stomach and
the upper thighs and buttock. This natural curvature becomes more
pronounced as the stomach enlarges. This belt is for use by persons
having a noticeable stomach, persons who typically, if they tighten
their belt will compress their stomach to an uncomfortable degree.
Thus, there is typically a discernable or even a pronounced
curvature between such a person's thighs and stomach, and the belt
fits into the area of this curvature. The inner belt 1 is fastened
so it does not constrict the overhanging stomach at the waistline 3
of the garment 6. The inner belt 1 optionally has one or more
buttons, snaps, toggles, hooks, hook-and-loop connections, belt and
loop connection, or other types of fasteners 2 along the part of
the belt that abuts the wearer's back.
[0053] A flexible arch 4 is fastened so it extends above the top
edge of the inner belt 1 a distance sufficient to reach the
waistband 10 adjacent the waistline 3 of the user's garment 6
(pants, skirt, etc.) A fastener 2 is also located at the top of
each offsetting arch 4. The height of the arch 4 will vary, but can
be approximated as a function of a person's waist size and pant or
leg length. The offsetting arch 4 is flexible. A thin metal rod or
wire is preferred for the arch, but suitably strong plastics may be
used. The arch could be formed from a continuous flexible loop, but
the arch is preferred that has two distal end with each end of the
arch fastened to the inner belt 1. Two offsetting arches 4 are
provided, located on the inner belt 1 adjacent to each side of the
zipper or center of the garment 6.
[0054] In use, the fasteners 2 are connected to the inside of the
back of the garment 6 (pants, skirt, etc,) by using a mating
fastener, such as a mating buttonhole, mating snap, toggle loop,
hooks, clamps such as those used in suspenders (FIG. 16), and other
releasable fasteners now known. Preferably, the fasteners 2 are
concealed from view by others, so external viewable clamps are not
preferred. The arch 4 is also fastened to the inside of the
garment, preferably using a releasable fastener 2, which is also
preferably (but optionally) concealed from view by others. FIGS.
5-6 show one fastener 2 for each arch, while FIG. 1 shows two
fasteners for each arch. Two fasteners are preferred, and more than
two fasteners could be used for each arch, but less preferably. The
inner belt 1 fits comfortably inside the garment 6 and supports the
waistband 10 and waistline 3 of the garment 6 at the normal level
by the fasteners 2 and arch 4, but without having to squeeze the
stomach at the waistline 3 of the garment 6. The garment is held at
its normal position around a person's waist internally by the inner
belt 1 and arches 4, while the inner belt 1 is worn comfortably
along the naturally formed body lines, without squeezing the
stomach at the waistline 3 of the garment 6. In a sense, the bottom
of the inner belt 1 rests against naturally occurring curves or
creases in the body at the juncture of the thighs and stomach in
order to support the garment internally, with the arches 4 provided
to support the offset of the waistline 3 from the inner belt 1. The
flexible arch 4 also allows deformation as a person sits down or
bends over without pressing into the stomach. This construction
allows a user to maintain the waistline 3 without having to tighten
an external belt or garment fasteners so the garment 3 and/or
external belt squeezes the user's stomach and causes discomfort and
the inevitably causes the garment and/or belt to slide downward
toward the user's crotch during use.
[0055] As used herein, the forward direction is the direction a
person looks when looking straight forward. The rear direction is
opposite, toward a person's back. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 7, the
arch 4 has opposing ends fastened to the inner belt 1. The arch 4
preferably fastens to the outside of the belt but could fasten to
the inside of the belt and that orientation is used in some of the
Figures for ease of illustration. Outside refers to the side most
distant from the user's body.
[0056] A front end 12 of the arch fastens to the inner belt 1
adjacent a person's crotch, near the zipper (if present) or the
midline of a person's body. Advantageously the front end 12 fastens
to the inner belt 1 at or near the lowest point below the user's
stomach to provide a stable support. A rear end 14 of the arch 4
attaches to the belt adjacent a person's hip, preferably on the hip
or slightly in front or behind the hip, which also provides a
stable support. The arch 4 is usually straighter as it approaches
the front end 12 because the inner belt 1 is further offset from
the waistline 3. The arch 4 is usually more inclined as it
approaches the rear end 14 because the waistline 3 is not offset
from the belt as much. The arch 4 connects the garment 6 to the
inside inner belt 1.
[0057] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 17, the front end 12 of the arch
4 is preferably, but optionally attached to the inner belt 1 using
a rotatable or hinged connection which allows the front end 12 to
rotate forward as a person bends forward. If the inner belt 1 is
flexible, the front end 12 could be fastened directly to the belt
by stitches, rivets, etc., and could be fastened adjacent a top and
bottom of the belt. Stitches 13 are shown in FIGS. 4 and 17. If the
inner belt 1 is stiff then the front end 12 could be fastened to
the belt at a single point about which the front end 12 could
rotate forward and backward. Further, the front end 12 could be
formed with a hinged or narrower or weaker section in either the
width or thickness of the arch, or both, in order to allow greater
flexibility and bending when a person's stomach pushes forward on
the arch 4. Given the present disclosure, a person skilled in the
clothing and apparel art could devise other ways to rotatably
fasten the front end 12 to the belt to allow rotation. The rear end
14 is fastened like the front end 12, but could be more stiffly
fastened as it does not usually need to rotate as much as the front
end 12. Rigid fastening of the arch 4 to a stiff inner belt 1 is
possible, but less desirable since it may not be as comfortable to
the user.
[0058] In addition to allowing some rotation of the arch 4, the
fastener 2 connecting the inner belt 1 to the arch 4 also
optionally accommodates forward and backward motion to allow easy
expansion and contraction of the stomach as a user breathes or
bends over or bends backward or twists etc. Thus, rigid connections
are not desirable, while flexible connections are desirable.
[0059] The front and rear ends 12, 14 of the arch 4 are preferably,
but optionally, stiffer than the middle portion of the arch. This
can be achieved by changing the width or thickness of the arch.
Advantageously the arch is formed of metal covered with fabric. The
arch could be integrally molded of a plastic material such as
polyethylene or polypropylene to help achieve this different
flexibility, but this is not as desirable unless the plastic is
strong. The more flexible center of the arch allows the top of the
arch to flex downward as a person leans forward and reduces the
pressure the arch exerts against the user's stomach as the user
leans forward. The arch 4 is thus preferably designed to be
flexible in all directions except it is stiff enough in the
vertical direction to maintain the waistline 3 in the desired
position.
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 7, the arch 4 is fastened to the
waistband 10 of the garment 6 at two locations along a generally
level or generally horizontal line, although the exact locations
can vary with the position each user believes is most comfortable
and attractive. Thus, in determining what constitutes generally
level or generally horizontal, there is some visual leeway to
accommodate user perception in what constitutes a suitable,
horizontal position of the waistline. The connection is achieved by
fasteners 2 located on the waistband 10 and arch 4, and preferably,
but optionally, the fasteners on the waistband are located on the
inside of the garment 6 and the inside of the waistband. Buttons or
snaps fastened to the arch 4 could be used. Alternatively,
referring to FIG. 8, the arch 4 could pass through a tubular pocket
at the waistband much like a stay in the collar of a shirt.
Further, as seen in FIG. 9, the arch 4 could pass through a pair of
slits 17 in the waistband, or a loop in the waistband. The slits 17
are shown as visible on the outside of the garment 6, or they could
be viewed only from the inside of the garment. Referring to FIG.
17, a piece of fabric is fastened to the arch and buttonholes 2 are
formed therein to fasten with buttons on the garment 6. Referring
to FIG. 16, clasps 19, of the type used on suspenders, can be
clipped over the edge 3 of the waistband 10 to releasably hold the
arch 4 to the garment 6. Various other releasable connections can
be devised given the present disclosure. If desired, a curved
pocket defining the shape of the arch could be sewn to the garment
6 and the arch inserted through the pocket and fastened to the
belt. The arch and belt could be permanently affixed to the
garment, but that may complicate dry-cleaning and pressing the
garment. Thus, a removable arch and belt is preferred.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the arch 4 is typically not in a
flat plane during use, but curves to conform to the shape of a
person's stomach. The distal ends 12, 14 of the arch 4 are
optionally stronger to provide more vertical stiffness, and the
middle portion of the arch 4 is more flexible in order to reduce
pressure on the abutting stomach. The arch 4 is thus doubly curved,
with a first curvature extending along a person's stomach in a
generally horizontal direction to conform to the lateral portion of
a person's stomach. The second curve of the arch 4 is along a
vertical direction to conform to a person's stomach as it curves
from the waistline downward toward a person's crotch. The arch 4 is
preferably formed with this double curvature, but could also be
formed flexible enough to take this preferred shape during use.
[0062] The arch 4 is typically not symmetric about a vertical line,
especially when one arch is fastened to the garment 6 using two
fasteners 2. The arch 4 is tilted since the front end 12 is lower
than the rear end 14, according to the position of the inner belt 1
to which the arch is fastened. The top of each arch is preferably
fairly flat so the arch can be fastened to the horizontal waistband
of a garment. Alternatively described, each of the arches 4
preferably fasten to the garment 6 at two locations on the
waistband 10, and the curve of the arch between those fastening
locations is preferably small enough that the arch does not extend
above the waistline 3. The arches 4 are located on the left and
right sides of a user, and tilt toward each other or are inclined
toward each other as best seen in FIG. 1. The two fasteners 2 that
fasten the arch to the garment 6 are preferably in a generally
horizontal line, but need not be so. Indeed, the arches 4 can be
configured to allow the waistline 3 to be above or below the
horizontal. Thus, the inner belt 1 defines the location of the ends
12, 14 of the arch and the connection 2 with the waistband 10
defines two more locations on the arch 4 for connecting the garment
6 to the arches and hence to the belt.
[0063] The connection between the waistband 10 and the arch 4
should be sturdy enough to allow the arch to support the waistband
10 and maintain the waistline 3 in position. Waistbands 10 are
commonly formed if folded over material so they have additional
thickness and stiffness. Preferably the waistband 10 has sufficient
thickness or stiffness so the waistline 3 forms a uniform line and
does not rise adjacent the connection with the arch and does not
sag away from the connection with the arch. If the waistband 10 is
not present, the arch 4 simply fastens directly to the garment
6.
[0064] Referring to FIGS. 6-7, the inner belt 1 optionally has
fasteners 2 located at one or more locations along the user's back
in order to fasten the belt to the garment 6 around the entire
waistline 3 through the waistband 10. Preferably there is a
fastener 2 on the rear side of each hip and one in the middle of
the back of the garment 6, in order to ensure the belt 4 does not
ride up into view if the user bends over, and to hold the belt in
place when removing the garment.
[0065] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the inner belt 1 can be of
conventional configuration as in FIGS. 6 and 11-12, or can have an
adjustable back as in FIGS. 5 and 14-15. The conventional
configuration belt of FIGS. 6 and 11-12 may have fasteners 2 at
various locations to connect to the garment 6 and will have arches
4, but cold otherwise be of conventional construction.
[0066] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 14-15, the inner belt 1 with an
adjustable back portion is shown. The belt comprises two parts, 1a
and 1b so the belt is adjustable adjacent a person's back. The
buckle 5 could be a conventional adjustable buckle as in FIG. 5,
but is preferably a two part buckle having one projecting part 5a
the fits into and interlocks with a mating recess in the other part
5b as shown in FIGS. 14-15. Thus, any type of releasable mechanism
could be used to releasably fasten the ends of the inner belt 1,
just as any type of releasable mechanism could be used to
releasably fasten the ends of the external belt 50 (Fig. ______).
Each part 1a, 1b of the belt thus has a portion of the buckle 5a,
5b on one end, and an adjustable end 22a, 22b on the opposing end.
In the depicted embodiment part 1a of the inner belt has a smaller
width end adjacent the adjustable end 22b, and that smaller width
portion could be an elastic material or a different material than
the belt 1. The adjustable ends 22a, 22b are adjustably and
releasably fastened together using any known mechanism 23. Such
adjustable and releasable fastener mechanism 23 include buckles 5,
and variations thereof, interlocking tabs with adjustable loops on
the ends, a series of prongs and mating holes, and other adjustable
fasteners described herein or known to those skilled in the
clothing and apparel art.
[0067] An inner belt 1 with an adjustable back allows the location
of the front end 12 of the arches 4 to maintain a constant location
while the length of the belt is varied. Making the back of the
inner belt 1 adjustable complicates fastening the back portion of
the belt to the garment 6. FIG. 15 shows fastener 2 taking the form
of one or more internal belt loops 25 fastened to the inside of
waistband 10, with the belt threaded through the interior loops 25.
FIG. 14 shows an elongated slit 20 in the belt portion 1b which can
be passed over a button on the inside of the waistband 10. Mating
snaps, toggles, and other fastening devices disclosed herein or
known to those skilled in the clothing and apparel art can be used
to fasten the inner belt 1 to the garment 6 along the back of the
user and between the user's hips. More than one slit 20 could be
used and more than one slit and fastener could be engaged to fasten
the garment to the belt.
[0068] In use, the inner belt 1 sits slightly above the user's hips
so that it rests on the hips and extends below the user's stomach
and follows the juncture of the stomach with the thighs in order to
provide a foundation to hold the garment 3 in position using the
arches 4. This juncture is well defined when a person sits, and
remains definable when a person stands or bends forward. The arches
4 connect to the inner belt 1 below the hips. The arch 4 spaces the
waistline 3 above the user's hips in a generally horizontal
position, or along a line considered desirable by the user. The
shape and size of the arch 4 is varied according to the size of a
person's stomach (e.g., the amount the stomach protrudes) and the
desired location of the waistline. The inner belt 1 and arch 4
combine to provide a positioner 16 (FIG. 5) that holds the
waistline 3 in a desired position, using an internal inner belt 1
that comfortable conforms to the user's natural body formation
along the juncture of the thighs and stomach. The positioner 16
inhibits the waistline 3 of the garment 6 from sliding down the
stomach, and varying the arch 4 can vary the level of the waistline
3 to a desired location. For persons with a protruding stomach the
waistline 3 is often preferred to be horizontal and slightly above
the hips. In contrast, some youths may prefer the waistline 3 to be
maintained closer to the crotch, whether horizontal or not.
[0069] The positioner 16 gives a very comfortable fit around the
user's waist. The inner belt 1 is adjustable using an adjustable
strap at the back section of the belt. This allows full adjustments
without changing the relative position of the arches with the
garment. The belt need not be tightened to compress against the
user's stomach. The positioner 16 rests against the outside of a
user's shirt to hold the shirttails in place while the waistband 10
rests comfortably around the user's waistline, without squeezing
the stomach uncomfortably. As desired, some or the entire arch
could be covered with a material that will enhance the shirt
holding ability, such as a slightly rough, gripping material that
will more readily cling to the shirt. A construction using a metal
arch covered with fabric such as thick cotton or polyester. A
curved metal rod of uniform cross section is believed suitable,
with a circular cross-section being preferred for such a curved
member. One or more of the flexible arch 4, flexible inner belt 1,
or the rotatable connection 2 with the inner belt 1, allow
comfortable movement in any direction without binding or squeezing
the user's stomach.
[0070] Different sized and shaped arches may be to adjust for a
person's waistline and stomach size, and also to adjust somewhat
for a person's height. Because the arch is fastened at only a few
locations, removal and replacement is easily achieved. The
positioner 16 is light and does not put pressure on the user's
body, and the small amount of pressure that is applied is applied
along the naturally occurring fold lines between a person's thighs
and stomach. Indeed, as a person sits down, the thighs and stomach
may clamp the positioner 16 in place. The positioner 16 is opened
only when the garment is opened or removed. The positioner 16 is
opened by disconnecting the distal ends of the inner belt 1,
typically by unbuckling buckle 5 located between the arches 4.
Opening the positioner 16 is useful to undo a zipper down the front
of a pair of pants. But if the garment has no front zipper as in
some ladies' skirts, then the belt may be made so it does not
open.
[0071] If desired, the arch 4 could be provided with tabs to make
it easier to connect the garment 6 to the arch using fasteners 2.
For example, as seen in FIG. 9, a tab 18 could have a buttonhole in
it to allow a button on the inside of the waistband 10 of garment 6
to fasten to the tab 18 and arch 4. Again, other releasable
connectors could be used with removable arches 4, such as snaps,
toggles, hook-and-loop, etc.
[0072] The above description uses two arches 4, but more arches
could be used. For most normally sized persons, two arches 4 are
sufficient.
[0073] As best seen in FIGS. 1, 5-6 and 11, a special inner belt 1
is used which has a front end 12 of a first arch 4 fastened at or
very near to the buckle 5, or other releasable connector. The
other, tail end of the inner belt 1 typically has the front end 12
of the second arch 4 fastened at a greater distance from the end of
the belt because the belt is adjustable. The inner belt 1 may have
releasable fasteners 2 at various locations along the length of the
belt to allow the position of the arches 4 to be varied. The inner
belt 1 may have the arches 4 permanently fastened to the belt.
Rivets, stitches, etc. are among the various ways to permanently
fasten the arches to the belt. The belt may be a two-piece belt
with an adjustable back (FIGS. 5 and 14-15).
[0074] Referring to FIGS. 1, 7, 12 and 15, the garment 6 preferably
has a waistband 10 stiff enough to support the waistline in a
desired position, which is typically level or horizontal, when
connected to each of the arches 4 at the desired number of
locations, typically at one or two locations per arch. The garment
6 also preferably has fasteners 2 at locations that correspond to
the middle of the user's back and rearward of the hips to ensure
the inner belt 1 does not ride up above the waistline 1. The
garment 6 has fasteners 2 at locations corresponding to the
position of the arches 4. The garment 6 can be pants, skirts,
dresses, or other garments work over the lower portion of the body
that are fastened around the user's waist. The arches 4 are
preferably removably fastened to the garment 6 using fasteners 2,
but the arches could be permanently fastened to the garment, in
which case the arches could be either removably fastened to the
inner belt 1 at ends 12, 14, or the arches could be permanently
fastened to the belt. Thus, the inner belt 1 and arches 4 could be
permanently fastened to the garment. For custom tailored clothing,
the inner belt 1 could have a fixed length and be fastened
permanently to the clothing.
[0075] The arch 4 is preferably a continuously curved, flexible
member. The arch 4 could be made in straight line segments, but
that is not preferred because the corners are likely to press
noticeably against the user's stomach and the corners are likely to
kink and break. The arches 4 are thus preferably continuously
curved between the connections to the inner belt 1, without any
sharp corners. The rear ends 14 on the left and right arches 4
preferably fasten to the inner belt 1 near the user's hips, and
preferably just in front of the users' hips. The front ends 12 on
the left and right arches 4 preferably fasten to the belt above the
user's crotch, and advantageously high enough above the crotch that
a male user could urinate without undoing the inner belt 1. While
the specific dimensions and locations of the arches 4 will vary
with a person's stomach and physique, for many people the top of
the arches will be about 4-6 inches away from the center plane of a
person's body, where the plane extends from the front to the back
through the middle of a person's body. The front end 12 for many
users will be located about two inches from that center plane.
Preferably, looking at the face and front body of an adult person
wearing the inner belt 1, the distance between the front ends 12 of
the two adjacent arches is about four inches and the distance
between the fasteners 2 on the each of the front ends 12 of the
arches 4 is about seven inches.
[0076] Referring to FIGS. 12-13, 15 and 17, the arches 4 are
preferably, but optionally fastened to the garment 6 by buttons 2
placed into a pocket in the waistband 10 through a generally
horizontal slit 20. The slits 20 are advantageously formed in a
piece of material 21 (FIG. 13) which is then fastened to the
waistband 10, preferably by sewing or clipping it to the waistband.
That allows the slit 20 to take the form of a reinforced buttonhole
with the piece of material containing the buttonhole forming a
pocket between the piece of material and the waistband 10 with the
button 2 received and held in that pocket. The buttons 2 are
preferably, but optionally, about as large in diameter as the width
of the waistband 10 so that the buttons help hold the entire width
of the waistband in position to reduce sagging between the various
connections to the inner belt 1. The horizontal slit 20 (FIG. 13)
allows the fastener 2 to move laterally along the waistband 10 to
accommodate movement of the user while still supporting the
waistband 10 and waistline 3 through the arch 4 connected to the
button 2. About 0.5 inches of lateral movement of fasteners 2 that
connect the arches to the garment 6, is believed suitable for most
uses. A piece of stiffer material 21, such as a plastic part with
rounded corners could be permanently placed in the waistband, with
a snap to releasably connect to the arch, and with a slit 20 to
allow movement of the snap and plastic insert along the waistband.
Indeed, a snap fastener at the center of the depicted button 2 that
is accessible through slit 20 would provide such a connection.
Other movable and releasable fasteners 2 can be devised given the
present disclosure, including passing the inner belt 1 through
loops 25 as in FIG. 15.
[0077] There is thus provided means comprising a positioner 16
comprising a inner belt 1 with a two flexible offsets 4 located
near opposing distal ends of the belt, and fasteners 2 that fasten
the garment 6 to the arch inside the garment for supporting the
waistline 3 of the garment at a normal level while that waistline
is offset from the belt by the arches 4.
[0078] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 17, a preferred construction is
shown having a flexible inner belt 1 of a relatively thick woven
fabric, of the type used on "Army belts." This thicker, woven
fabric is relatively flexible, or at least it deforms more readily
if a constant deformation force is applied as by the distal end of
the arch 4. The thick woven fabric of inner belt 1 provides a
cushion against the body of the user. The arch 4 is optionally
enclosed in fabric, such as thick cotton stitched around the
metallic arch, with the ends 12, 14 of the arch inserted into
pockets formed by a strip of material 24a forming a little pocket
26 that receives one end of the arch. A short strip of nylon is
suitable for the material 24a. The strip of material 24a is
fastened to the belt by stitches 13, but could be riveted, glued,
or fastened by other ways described herein or known to one skilled
in the clothing and apparel art.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 17, a strip of material 28 is sewn to
opposing legs of the arch 4 and fasteners 2 are connected to or
formed in that piece of material. In the illustrated embodiment
button holes 2 are provided and located to fasten to mating buttons
on the inside of the waistband 10 of the garment 6. Again, various
fasteners can be connected to the material 26 as described herein
or as known to a person skilled in the clothing and apparel art.
Further, while FIG. 17 shows both buttons 2 connected to the arch 4
and button holes 2 connected to the material 26, both are
considered connected to the arch 4 and one or the other could be
provided, or both could be provided, or any combination
thereof.
[0080] Preferably, but optionally, the material 24a forms an
elongated strip 24 that extends along the entire length of inner
belt 1. In FIGS. 14-15, the elongated strip of material 24 can form
part of belt portion 1b which threads through a clasp to form an
adjustable portion at the back of the user, or in the middle of the
belt. In this configuration the elongated strip of 24 is of Nylon
and is less stretchable than the woven material of underlying belt
portion 1. There is thus provided an inner belt 1 having two
portions 1a, 1b joined at a middle of the belt. Each belt portion
1a, 1b has an arch 4 fastened thereto. Each belt portion 1a, 1b
preferably, but optionally, has a softer portion 1 located on the
side of the belt toward the user and a strengthening portion 24
located on the side of the belt away from the user. The elongated
strengthening portion 24 can form a portion of the connection
between ends 22a, 22b of the belt.
[0081] Still referring to FIG. 17, the material 24 locally stiffens
the segment of the inner belt 1 that holds the ends of the arch 4.
The arch 4 can flex in along the vertical Y axis as a person bends
forward against the arch, and the apex of the arch between the
buttons 2 can move relative to the inner belt 1 which remains
stable. Further, as a person bends forward the arch 4 can rotate
about the X axis at the juncture of the arch 4 with the inner belt
1 so the apex of the arch moves in and out of the X-Y plane while
the ends of the arch remain stable at the belt, as partially shown
in FIG. 4. Likewise, the ends of the arch 4 can move along the Z
axis relative to the apex of the arch between the buttons 2 in
order to curve around a user's stomach as shown in FIG. 3.
[0082] The strips 24 fastened to the inner belt 1 at the ends of
the arch 4 provide a stable base for the arch 4, allowing the arch
to rotate and deform while the ends of the arch remain in
essentially the same location, but may rotate as the arch tilts or
deforms. The connection of the ends of the arch 4 to the inner belt
1 thus restrains translation of the two opposing ends of the arch
relative to the inner belt 1, but permits rotation in at least the
Z axis so the arch apex can rotate.
[0083] The forces on the arch 4 are believed to come from two main
sources, the first being the weight of the garment 6 passing
through the fasteners 2 to the arch 4 and through the arch to the
inner belt 1 and thus to the user. The second source of forces is
believed to be the force exerted by the user's body on the arch 4,
and that force is believed to primarily come from the user's
stomach, with the force varying depending with movement of the
stomach, as for example when the user bends forward, sideways or
backwards.
[0084] The connection of the ends of the arches 4 to the inner belt
1 also cushion the forces exerted on each arch and pass those
forces along a length of the belt placed along the creases or
junctures between the user's thighs and stomach. Since the force
exerted on the arches 4 is diffused along a relatively long length
of the belt, the force is less, the smaller force is less
noticeable and the user's comfort is increased. Moreover, as the
user moves the inner belt 1 does not tighten with movement of the
user's stomach as in the prior art because the inner belt 1 rests
against the body creases at the juncture of the stomach and thighs,
and also rests on the user's hips. Further, it is believed that as
the size of a user's stomach increases and protrudes more, the belt
begins to be squeezed or clamped between the user's thighs and
stomach, and this squeezing or clamping of the inner belt 1 further
distributes any force from the arches 4 and inner belt 1 over a
greater area, further lessening the force and increasing the
perceived comfort.
[0085] Thus, when the arch 4 is described as flexible in the
vertical direction, the flexibility refers to the ability of the
arch 4 to move as described when fastened to the inner belt 1. When
the arch 4 is described as rotating about the length of the inner
belt 1, the rotation refers to the ability of the arch 4 to rotate
about the X axis (FIG. 17) as described when the ends of the arch
are fastened to the inner belt 1.
[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the ends of the arches can be
pulled out of the pockets 26 formed in the inner belt 1 by strips
of material 24. If the garment 6 is provided with belt loops on the
inside of the garment on opposing sides of the crotch or zipper,
the user could thread the buckle parts 5a, 5b through these loops
and use the inner belt 1 as an internal, concealed belt. This could
be useful when the user is to remain seated for long periods of
time, as on transcontinental flights which can last from 10-15
hours, or more.
[0087] The inner belt 1 is greatly preferred to be worn inside the
garment 6 and concealed from view during use. But the inner belt 1
could be worn outside the garment 6. Moreover, while the inner belt
1 maintains the position of the garment waistline 3 at the desired
location (horizontal or otherwise). Further, even though an
internal inner belt 1 maintains the waistline 3 and supports the
garment 6 on the user's body, external belt loops and an external
belt can be used in order to maintain conventional appearances.
Indeed, a user with a pronounced stomach but wearing an external
belt at a horizontal position maintained by internal, concealed
inner belt 1 and arches 4, is believed to appear thinner than the
user actually is. If an external belt is used, it is preferably,
but optionally, thin, slightly elastic and light weight.
[0088] The inner belt 1 and arches 4 thus provide means for
maintaining the waistline 3 of a garment 6 in a desired location on
a user's body. The arches 4 provide means for varying the position
of the waistline 3 relative to the inner belt 1. The adjustable
buckle 5 accommodates variations in waist size. The adjustable rear
portions 22a, 22b joined by the releasable mechanism or buckle 23
also accommodate variations in waist size but without altering the
relative position of the arches 4. The various mechanisms such as
buckles 5, 23 provide adjustable means for joining ends of the
inner belt 1.
[0089] The inner belt 1 provides a very comfortable way to support
the garment 6 while maintaining the waistline 3 at a desired
location. The belt 3 is preferably lightweight, weighing about 1/3
the weight of a leather belt of comparable width.
[0090] Referring to FIGS. 18-19, the inner belt 1 is preferably
inside the garment 6 and not normally visible to others. A normal
belt 30 can be worn outside the garment 6 to give the appearance of
a normal belt and garment. If belt loops (e.g., loops 25) are
provided in the garment the belt 30 will be held by those loops.
But it is advantageous to keep the belt level with the waistline 3
of the garment 6. To do so, a piece of material 21 can be fastened
to the belt 30, preferably on the inside of the belt, to form a
pocket 26. Stitches 13 are preferably used to fasten the material
21 to the belt 30, but rivets, adhesives or other fastening
mechanisms could be used. The piece of material 21 is preferably
fastened to the belt 30 along three sides, around the opposing ends
and bottom but not at the top, so an open pocket 26 is formed on
the inside of the belt 30. A clasp 19 can fit inside the pocket 26
to clamp the pocket (and thus the belt 30) to the garment 6, thus
maintaining the belt 30 in alignment with the waistline 3 of the
garment. Instead of a clasp 19, the piece of material 21 fastened
to the external belt 30 could have a buttonhole as described in
FIG. 13, so that a button fastened to the waistband on the outside
of the garment 6 could be fastened to the external belt 30. By
forming a pocket 26 on the inside of the belt 30, the pocket and
clasp 19 are concealed from view, although a top portion of the
clasp may be visible. A button connecting the garment to the pocket
26 formed by piece of material 21 would be concealed from view.
There is also provided a means for fastening an external belt 30 to
the garment 6 to maintain the belt 30 in a desired alignment with
the waistline 3 of the garment.
[0091] Further, the arch 4 could also be held by the clasp 19 in
order to fasten the interior inner belt 1 to the garment 6, as
shown in FIG. 19. There is thus provided further means for
fastening the inner belt 1 to the garment.
[0092] Referring to FIG. 15, the inner belt 1 is preferably
fastened to the garment 6 at a location along the user's back by
passing the strip of material 24 through belt loops 25, although
any known ways of releasably fastening the parts can be used. But
as seen in the figure the wide portion of inner belt 1 has an end
22c. Ends 22a, 22c could be fastened directly to the garment 6, by
buttons, snaps, toggles, or other releasable connections. Thus,
button holes 20 are shown in FIG. 14 in the ends 22a, 22c, for
fastening with aligned buttons (not shown) on the garment 6.
Further, the ends 22a, 22c could be permanently fastened to the
garment 6, as for example by sewing or rivets or other fastening
mechanisms used in the apparel industry.
[0093] Referring to FIGS. 20-25, another mechanism is disclosed for
fastening the inner belt 1 and/or arch 4 to the garment 6, using
external belt 50. At last one, and preferably a plurality of first
loops 52 are connected directly or indirectly to each arch 4. Each
first loop 52 is long enough so it can extend from inside the
garment 6, over the waistline 3, and along the external waistband
10 a distance sufficient so that an external belt 50 can be
threaded along its normal path through the external belt loops 60
found on the garment 6, and also threaded through the loop(s) 52.
At least one, and preferably a plurality of such loops are also
fastened to the back of the internal belt 1 so the external belt 50
can thread through those back loops or second loops 53 as well when
the outer belt 50 is threaded along its normal path through
external belt loops 60. The user's external belt 50 can thus be
used to connect to the arch 4 and/or belt 1 to support the garment
6.
[0094] Referring to FIG. 20-25, in a preferred embodiment, the
first and second loops 52, 53 have a portion forming an opening and
also and optionally have a free end 54. The loops 52, 53 can be
formed by taking an elongated strip of material with first and
second ends and sewing the second end to the strip of material
inward between the first and second ends to form the loops, with
the portion between the loop and the first end forming the free end
54. The free end 54 is fastened to the inner belt 1 by any suitable
means, including sewing, riveting, gluing, hook and loop fasteners,
and other known fastening means or means developed in the future.
Preferably, the free end 54 is sewn to the inner belt 1 or to a
support connected to the inner belt 1.
[0095] Advantageously the inner belt 1 is stiffened at the location
where the loops 52, 53 are fastened. Referring initially to the
second loops 52 at the back of the garment 6 and inner belt 1, this
localized stiffening is preferably achieved by fastening an
elongated stiffener 56 to a portion of the loop 52, 53. This can be
achieved by placing the free end 54 of the loop 52, 53 between the
belt 1 and the stiffener 56 and fastening those parts together
using mechanical fasteners or other fasteners such as gluing etc.
Preferably the parts are sewn together by stitches 13 as in FIG.
23a. A stiffener about 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide, about 1.5 inches
(3.5 cm) long, and about 0.1 inches (0.3 cm) thick, made of stiff
fiberboard or of fiberboard composite, is believed suitable. A thin
plastic can be used if it could be sewn without fracturing with
repeated use. A stiff shoe leather or piece of elastomer or rubber
could also be used, as could a variety of other materials.
[0096] The loop 52, 53 (or 62) is preferably fastened directly to
the belt 1 and located between the inner belt 1 and stiffener 56 as
shown in FIGS. 23a, 23b. But the loops could be on the outer side
of the stiffener 56 adjacent the garment 6 during use as is loop 62
in FIG. 26. The arch 4 is also preferably fastened directly to the
inner belt 1, between the inner belt 1 and the stiffener 56 as in
FIG. 23a, but could be fastened to the between the stiffener 56 and
the garment 6 as in FIG. 23b. Other arrangements of the parts could
also be used.
[0097] The top of the loop 52, 53 and stiffener 56 advantageously
extend to or slightly above the waistline 3, with the loop 52, 53
being long enough to lay along the outer waistband 10 so the user's
external belt can pass through the loop. The stiffener 56 is
advantageously configured and made of a material such that it is
strong enough to prevent the loop 52, 53 from pulling down the
waistline 3 at the location of the loop. The stiffeners 56 could be
omitted, but then the waistline can be pulled down at the location
of each loop 52, 53. Thus, the stiffener 56 is configures so that
it extends above the waistline far enough so the waistline is not
appreciably pulled down during use with the external belt 50 is
used. Thus, the stiffener 56 keeps the top of the loop 52, 53 above
the waistline 3 during use, with the external belt 50 abutting the
bottom of the loop. Top refers to the upward or skyward direction
as a person is standing, and bottom refers to the downward,
earthward direct as a person is standing. Preferably, there is one
loop 52, 53 on opposing sides of the adjustable member fastener
22a.
[0098] A similar construction is advantageously used in connecting
the external belt 50 at the front of the garment. An arch 4 as
shown in FIG. 10 can have one or more tabs 18, with a loop 52
fastened to one of the tabs 18, and with the tab 18 configured to
place the top of the loop 52 above the waistline 3 during use.
Alternatively, a stiffener 56 can be fastened to the inner belt 1,
fastened directly to the arch 4 and have a loop 52 fastened to the
top of the stiffener 56 as previously described. The stiffeners 56
help support the weight of the external belt 50 which in turn
supports the weight of the garment 6.
[0099] Preferably though, as shown in FIGS. 20-25, a small sheet of
material 26a is fastened to each arch 4. The sheet of stiffening
material 26a extends across the top of the arch 4 and optionally
has at least one, and preferably has two, spaced apart tabs 18b. A
loop 52 is fastened to each tab 18b. The stiffening material 26a is
stiff enough in the vertical direction that the loops 52 do not
pull the waistline 3 downward, yet flexible in the other two
directions that they are comfortable for the user, especially when
the user bends over. A sheet of material about 0.1 inches thick,
made of a stiff leather or leather and elastomeric composite, is
believed suitable. The sheet of material 26a need not be continuous
but may have holes or openings in it. The arch 4 is preferably
fastened to the stiffening material 26a by a strip of material 26
placed over the arch 4 and sewn to the material 26a by stitching 13
or otherwise fastened to the material 26a. The tabs 18b extend
above the arch 4 so the arch does not show above the waistline 3.
The sheet of material 26a and tabs 18b are preferably stiff enough
to support the weight of the garment 6 while not visibly distorting
the waistline 3 when the external belt 50 is threaded through the
loops 52 fastened to the tabs 18b and also threaded through the
external belt loops 60 typically found on a garment. Alternatively,
localized stiffeners 56 can be fastened to the tabs 18b and arch
and/or inner belt 1 to support the top of the loops 52 above the
waistline 3 during use.
[0100] During use, the external belt 50 is threaded through the
loops 52 directly or indirectly connected to one of the arches 4
and also threaded through the normal external belt loops 60 found
on garments. The weight of the garment 6 pulls the external belt 50
downward against the bottom of loops 52, while the top of the belt
loops 60 on the outside of the garment normally abut the top of the
external belt 50. The loops 52 are fastened to one of the arches 4
to support the external belt 50. Preferably, the tabs 18b and/or
stiffeners 56 keep the top of the loops 52 above the waistline 3 so
the waistline is not visually distorted and so the top of the arch
does not extend above the waistline 3. But again the tabs 18b are
optional. The arches 4, tabs 18b and sheet of material 26a transfer
the weight of the external belt 50 and garment 6 to the inner belt
1, and in varying degrees support that weight off the inner belt 1
and maintain the position of the loops 52 relative to the inner
belt 1.
[0101] There are preferably two tabs 18b on each arch 4, with the
tabs spaced about 2-2.5 inches (5-7 cm) apart measured center to
center when the tabs 18b are about 0.5 inches wide, and measured
from inner-edge to inner edge when the tabs 18b are wider. This
spacing allows one of the two loops 52 connected to an arch 4 to
fit close to the belt loops on most normal pants. It is desirable
to have a loop 52 close to the normal, external belt loop 60 on a
garment. The design considerations and construction of second loops
53 are preferably the same as loop 52 and is thus not repeated.
[0102] There is thus advantageously provided an apparatus for using
an external belt 50 to support the weight of a garment 6 along a
substantially straight waistline, and to use an inner belt 1 with
arches 4, and loops 52 fastened to the inner belt 1 and/or arches
4, to support the external belt 50.
[0103] There is also advantageously provided a method of using
external belt 50 passing through external belt loops 60 to support
the weight of a garment 6, and passing that external belt 50
through loops 52, 53 connected to and supported by inner belt 1 so
the weight of the garment is carried by the inner belt. The inner
belt 1 conforms to the body curves of the stomach adjacent the
juncture with the user's thighs, while the outer belt 1 conforms to
a substantially level waistline 3. The arches 4, stiffeners 56, and
tabs 18b are interposed between the exterior belt 50 and the inner
belt 1 to support the weight of the external belt 50 and garment 6
off the inner belt 1 and to maintain the position of the loops 52,
53 relative to the inner belt.
[0104] In broad terms, the inner belt 1 is placed along the
contoured juncture of the stomach and thighs at the front of a
user's body, and above the user's hips at the back of the user's
body. The inner belt 1 is flexible and comfortable. Offsets, in the
form of arches 4 or localized stiffeners 56 offset the top position
of loops 52, 53 above the inner belt to define the position of the
waistline 3 of a garment 6. The offsets, in the form of arches 4
and local stiffeners 56 flex to conform to the user's stomach and
movement, but provide enough vertical stiffness to support those
loops 52, 53 and transfer the weight of the garment 6 to the inner
belt 1. The external or outer belt 50 thus carries the weight of
the garment through the normal garment belt loops 60, and the
offset belt loops 52 carry the weight of the outer belt 50 while
the offsets in the form of arches 4 and stiffeners 56 transmit the
weight of the garment 6 and outer belt 50 to the inner belt 1. The
waistline 3 is thus supported by the inner belt 1, which is
concealed from view and which more comfortably supports the garment
weight because the inner belt 1 follows the body contours along the
juncture of the stomach and thighs. The waistline 3 can maintain a
level or straight position as the user moves since the user's
movement distorts the inner belt 1, leaving the outer belt 50
relatively unaffected. By supporting the weight of the garment 6 on
the inner belt 1 which is concealed from view by the garment 6, the
outer belt 60 and waistline 3 of the garment 6 can be held at any
desired position and thereby avoid the unsightly appearance of a
stomach overhanging the garment's waistline. A level waistline 3
makes the person look slimmer. Further, because the waistline 3 is
supported by the concealed, inner belt 1, the waistline position
relative to the inner belt 1 is maintained as the persons' body
moves and bends. This allows movement of the person's body and also
allows adjustment of the waistline position with little restriction
from the user's stomach size and with little or no distortion of
the stomach.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 26, a further mechanism for fastening to
the outer belt 60 is shown in which a loop 62 fastened to the inner
belt 1 and/or stiffener 56 passes through an external belt loop 60
of the garment 6 to support the garment. The loop 60 preferably has
one end permanently fastened to belt 1 or stiffener 56, and the
other end releasably fastened to the belt 1 or stiffener 56 by
fastener 2. Snaps, hook ands loop fasteners, buttons, clasps,
forming knots with the free end, fitting enlarged ends into smaller
retention slots, or other releasable fastening mechanisms as
previously described are believed suitable for fastener 2. There
are thus provided various means for releasably connecting a free
distal end of loop 62 to the inner belt.
[0106] The above description is given by way of example, and not
limitation. Given the above disclosure, one skilled in the art
could devise variations that are within the scope and spirit of the
invention disclosed herein, including various ways of configuring
and locating the fasteners 2 and the arches 4 and a variety of
connectors 2 could be used. Likewise, a variety of adjustable
connectors 5, 23 could be used for connecting the ends of the inner
belt 1 or belt portions 1a, 1b. Additionally, various stiffeners 56
could be used to support the loops 52, 53 and the loops 52, 53 can
be fastened to the inner belt 1 various ways. Further, the various
features of the embodiments disclosed herein can be used alone, or
in varying combinations with each other and are not intended to be
limited to the specific combination described herein. Thus, the
scope of the claims is not to be limited by the illustrated
embodiments.
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